The card came in the mail. It announced the big clearance I’d been waiting for. The end of the season sale at the Talbot’s Outlet meant they were slashing prices by as much as 75%. I glanced at my calendar, determined to work this into my schedule. I love shopping for clothes! And who doesn’t enjoy having new outfits to choose from?!
Back at home, I grimaced as I hung up my purchases. I didn’t really NEED these new clothes – in fact, my closet was already packed with things I rarely wear. The sad reality is that I probably only wear a small fraction of the clothes I already own. I tend to gravitate toward the things that are comfortable. The things I know that go well together. You too?
Sometimes I find myself doing the same thing spiritually. I get stuck in a groove, content with my ‘comfortable’ routine. Forgetting that spiritual growth takes concentrated effort, I turn away from challenges that would require a step of faith, and settle for walking the same old path I can see. God’s Word reminds me, “But without faith it is impossible to please him…” (Hebrews 11:6a; KJV).
He desires a vibrant relationship with me. His plan for me is clearly outlined, “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection , and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death,” (Philippians 3:10). I can sign up for the first part of that verse without reservation. Knowing Christ and the power of his resurrection sounds exciting. But the second part is a bit more difficult. In fact, suffering and denying myself doesn’t sound like fun at all. Trials require faith in my Heavenly Father. Trials help me realize my need for Him. Trials allow me to grow beyond my comfort zone. No doubt about it, trials are difficult. But they’re the prescription for growth.
Time for a spiritual wardrobe change! My clothes for His. My will, doubts, and hesitations, for His truth, righteousness, gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:14-17). My clothes encourage me to sit on the sidelines, avoiding participation. His armor reminds me I’m in a battle and my participation is necessary. Every piece of armor is necessary for me to be successful against my enemy, the devil. And His wardrobe fits me perfectly and is always in style!
Today, I know what I’ll choose to wear. What about you?
Do you have difficulty walking by faith? Do potential trials cause you to stay in your comfort zone? What will you do today to trade your ‘wardrobe’ for His?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for loving me and showering me with Your grace and mercy. Thank You for reminding me that faith pleases You! Help me to be willing to leave my comfort zone, put on Your armor, and join the battle. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Maria!!! I am always so moved whenever you post a blog...this was a great one! I try to choose my
ReplyDelete"wardrobe" carefully, but at times, yes, i do have difficulty walking by faith. Faith is my theme word of life this year, and I am trying to always remember that in all things, God knows what the best thing for me would be. You said it best when you said "Trials help me realize my need for Him. Trials allow me to grow beyond my comfort zone. No doubt about it, trials are difficult. But they’re the prescription for growth" Continue to inspire everyone Maria! Have a wonderful day!
OH - this is a great one, Maria! I'm SUCH a creature of habit! Only stepping out of the comfortable will allow us to really grow.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, thoughtful post, Maria! I'm like Joanne--a creature of habit! EEEK! But the Lord does love to stretch me. :)
ReplyDeleteOh boy. Jeans and t-shirt are so much more comfortable than armor... You are so right. We don't like the hard times but it's those times that strengthen and grow us.
ReplyDeleteThank you. Gotta go change my clothes!
Wonderful post!!! I needed this!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful post. Exclaiming my faith is out of my comfort zone. Recently I have changed my blog to be scripture base. And must admit, it seems less successful! But who's admiration should I be wanting?? His of course! He is always teaching us isn't he?
ReplyDeleteKC - Thanks so much for your heartfelt comments! You've chosen a wonderful theme word for this year - faith! I'm so glad the Lord gives us the opportunity to exercise faith in Him one step at a time. And when something is exercised, it grows! Praying for a wonderful year of continued growth for you! God bless you for seeking Him! :)
ReplyDeleteJoanne - Great to see you! There's comfort in routine, isn't there? But I tend to go into auto pilot mode instead of seeking a fresh adventure with the Lord. So glad to have the opportunity to be in the Word together over at Living by Grace! God bless you bunches!
ReplyDeleteJessica - Thanks for stopping by! Couldn't help thinking of Elasti-Girl from The Incredibles, when I read your comment! Yes, being flexible is a good thing! Working on it! Have a blessed week, my friend!
ReplyDeletePatty - Welcome! Love your sense of humor! I'm with you where the jeans and t-shirt are concerned. I've purposely made myself choose clothes that I haven't worn in a LONG time the last couple of days. It's been good for me to break out the iron and press some clothes! Looking forward to your post this week over at Living by Grace! God bless!
ReplyDeleteLissa - Thanks so much for stopping by and posting a comment! Your encouragement is a blessing. Have a beautiful week!
ReplyDeleteLynn - So good to see you! Thanks for your honesty! I struggle with sharing my faith as well. Seems the enemy is good at convincing me that others don't want to hear the gospel. And sometimes they don't, but my job is to share God's truth anyway and let the Holy Spirit do the convicting. Congratulations on focusing your blog on spiritual things! God WILL bless your efforts! I'm headed over right now!! God bless you, Lynn!:)
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